Barbara Worthy
Special to The Lake Report

The history of Black music in Canada is still a story being told and is one that is perhaps not fully appreciated nor understood.

In a post-Drake world, Canadian Black artists now dominate the charts and have garnered massive international respect in genres as diverse as hip-hop, soul, blues and jazz.

But the path to that recognition was a steep climb and not without its struggles.

Historian and educator Carlos Morgan will share this colourful history in the Niagara-on-the-Lake Museum’s final in-person lecture of 2023, on Thursday, Sept. 21, at 7:30 pm.

Morgan, a Juno award-winning Black singer, songwriter, recording artist, and founder of Solroc Records, was born and raised in Canada.

“But I wasn’t educated about the contributions of Black artists and musicians in Canada,” he said. “And they were an integral part of our cultural identity.”  

Morgan’s passion for sharing this unique history led him to teaching across Ontario and raising awareness of how Black music has laid the foundation for music in Canada, shaping and influencing the lives of people worldwide.

From Oscar Peterson to rapper Maestro Fresh Wes, and African-Canadian contralto Portia White, Morgan will examine the roots of Black music, its impact and how it’s been a messenger, an outlet and a space of freedom.

Museum lectures are $10 for the public or free for members. Call the museum at 905-468-3912 to reserve seating.